We mourn the sudden and unexpected death of Sarah Reichard, Professor in the School of Forest Resources at the University of Washington and Director of the UW Botanical Garden. For more than 25 years, Sarah was a leading researcher on invasive plants. She studied their traits; sought to predict their invasive ability; searched for ways to detect new invaders early; and examined the effects of plant invaders on native ecosystems. She also engaged the nursery industry, botanical gardens, and other horticultural groups in addressing invasive plant threats. She brought an open style, compassion, deep thoughtfulness — and yet a burning desire for righteous change — to all this work.
Sarah established her expertise early and was long a recognized expert.She published widely — in academic journals, gardening magazines, and policy papers. Most recently, she authored the well-received book, The Conscientious Gardener: Cultivating a Garden Ethic. Also, Sarah was a key organizer and participant in meetings — both international and national — that addressed invasive species. Many of us in the conservation community relied upon her work and advice to guide invasive plant policy.
We join her husband, her colleagues at the University of Washington, and invasive plant experts around the world in mourning Sarah’s untimely death. Our world is a poorer place without her bright and generous spirit.
Faith Campbell
Phyllis Windle
Peter Jenkins